"Assistant Professor"

About the Job

The Humphrey School of Public Affairs seeks applications for a full-time, tenure track faculty position at the assistant professor or advanced assistant professor level in social policy with a field of specialization in the domestic (U.S.) applied policy areas of labor or public economics. The faculty member will join a vibrant community of interdisciplinary scholars at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, and support graduate students pursuing the Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) and other master’s-level professional degree programs, and the Ph.D. in Public Affairs program. Successful candidates must demonstrate the potential to develop an innovative and socially impactful research portfolio that addresses contemporary questions related to social policy.

Applicants may have disciplinary backgrounds in economics, public policy, public affairs, or related fields. We seek candidates working in domestic (U.S.) applied policy areas of labor or public economics. We especially welcome those with research interests or expertise in anti-poverty policies, gender policy, public finance, and program evaluation. We welcome applications from scholars employing quantitative methods with a preference for applicants who have a demonstrated commitment to engaged and interdisciplinary scholarship. Candidates should be able to teach graduate-level courses in policy analysis, microeconomics, and quantitative methods, as well as courses in their area of expertise.

Candidates must be committed to scholarly and socially impactful research; provide leadership to established Masters and Ph.D. programs at the Humphrey School; be willing to help prepare students for careers in social policy; function collaboratively in a multi- and interdisciplinary environment; and help ensure the long-term capacity of the School as a center of excellence for professional education, service, and scholarship.

The starting date for this appointment is August 31, 2026 or as soon thereafter as possible.

[Posting updated 10/29/25 to reflect a new starting date.]

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

All candidates must hold a Ph.D. by the time of employment. See preferred qualifications in the description above.

About the Department

The Humphrey School of Public Affairs is committed to academic excellence and diversity in every facet of its work, and in its mission: to educate, engage, and equip leaders and communities to discover solutions that advance the common good in our diverse world. The School is ranked in the top 5% nationally among U.S. based schools of public affairs, is NASPAA-accredited, and known for its research and public engagement in local, state, national, and international policy spheres.

The Humphrey School works to enrich the diversity of the University community and encourages faculty applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply. Our concept of a diverse community encompasses people with identities that have been historically marginalized in our society and underrepresented in higher education and the realm of public affairs, particularly: scholars from the Global South; Black, Indigenous, and people of color; new immigrants; people with disabilities; women and people of all gender identities and expressions; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and first-generation college students. We seek candidates whose approach to teaching and research is innovative and inclusive in terms of structurally or historically underrepresented groups. The Humphrey School also recognizes issues of access and climate for individuals who might encounter barriers based on their religion, age, national origin, ethnicity, or veteran status. We are committed to creating, inviting, and welcoming individuals into an environment where all people may learn and contribute with a sense of belonging.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $90,000 - $110,000, based on qualifications and experience ; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. Applications should include: curriculum vitae; three letters of recommendation; a sample of recent research; and a one-page statement of research and teaching interests and experience. Recommendation letters may be submitted separately to hhh-econ-search@umn.edu and addressed to Search Committee for Social Policy Area, Humphrey School of Public Affairs.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Applications will be reviewed beginning November 10, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.